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Semenya MD, Aladejana AE, Ndlovu SI. Characterization of susceptibility patterns and adaptability of the newly emerged Candida auris. Int Microbiol 2025; 28:575-587. [PMID: 39107585 PMCID: PMC11906518 DOI: 10.1007/s10123-024-00563-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2025]
Abstract
The emergence of Candida auris has caused a major concern in the public health worldwide. This novel fungus is characterized by its multidrug resistance profile, ability to thrive in harsh and stressful conditions, as well as high temperatures and salt concentrations, persistence on hospital surfaces, causing nosocomial infections and outbreaks, and unique fitness properties. Here, we study the antifungal susceptibility patterns, thermotolerance, and halotolerance of 15 putative C. auris clinical isolates from Inkosi Albert Academic Hospital, Durban, South Africa. Five of the C. auris isolates showed resistance to all three antifungals (fluconazole, amphotericin B, and micafungin) and were selected for characterization of their adaptability mechanisms. Four of the tested multidrug-resistant C. auris isolates (C. auris strain F25, C. auris strain F276, C. auris F283, and C. auris M153) showed good growth when exposed to high temperature (42 °C) and salinity (10% NaCl) conditions whereas one isolate (C. auris F65) showed moderate growth under these conditions. Candida parapsilosis showed poor growth whereas C. albicans no growth under these conditions. The five C. auris strains were positive for all the adaptive features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matlou D Semenya
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Faculty of Science, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, 2028, South Africa
| | - Adebowale E Aladejana
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Faculty of Science, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, 2028, South Africa
| | - Sizwe I Ndlovu
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Faculty of Science, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, 2028, South Africa.
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2
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Mishra SK, Akter T, Urmi UL, Enninful G, Sara M, Shen J, Suresh D, Zheng L, Mekonen ES, Rayamajhee B, Labricciosa FM, Sartelli M, Willcox M. Harnessing Non-Antibiotic Strategies to Counter Multidrug-Resistant Clinical Pathogens with Special Reference to Antimicrobial Peptides and Their Coatings. Antibiotics (Basel) 2025; 14:57. [PMID: 39858343 PMCID: PMC11762091 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics14010057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2024] [Revised: 01/02/2025] [Accepted: 01/07/2025] [Indexed: 01/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is a critical global challenge in the 21st century, validating Sir Alexander Fleming's warning about the misuse of antibiotics leading to resistant microbes. With a dwindling arsenal of effective antibiotics, it is imperative to concentrate on alternative antimicrobial strategies. Previous studies have not comprehensively discussed the advantages and limitations of various strategies, including bacteriophage therapy, probiotics, immunotherapies, photodynamic therapy, essential oils, nanoparticles and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) within a single review. This review addresses that gap by providing an overview of these various non-antibiotic antimicrobial strategies, highlighting their pros and cons, with a particular emphasis on antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). We explore the mechanism of action of AMPs against bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. While these peptides hold significant promise, their application in mainstream drug development is hindered by challenges such as low bioavailability and potential toxicity. However, advancements in peptide engineering and chemical modifications offer solutions to enhance their clinical utility. Additionally, this review presents updates on strategies aimed at improving the cost, stability and selective toxicity of AMPs through the development of peptidomimetics. These molecules have demonstrated effective activity against a broad range of pathogens, making them valuable candidates for integration into surface coatings to prevent device-associated infections. Furthermore, we discuss various approaches for attaching and functionalising these peptides on surfaces. Finally, we recommend comprehensive in vivo studies to evaluate the efficacy of AMPs and their mimetics, investigate their synergistic combinations with other molecules and assess their potential as coatings for medical devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyam Kumar Mishra
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (S.K.M.); (T.A.); (M.S.); (J.S.); (B.R.); (M.W.)
- Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Institute of Medicine, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal
| | - Tanzina Akter
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (S.K.M.); (T.A.); (M.S.); (J.S.); (B.R.); (M.W.)
- Microbial Biotechnology Division, National Institute of Biotechnology, Dhaka 1349, Bangladesh
| | - Umme Laila Urmi
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (S.K.M.); (T.A.); (M.S.); (J.S.); (B.R.); (M.W.)
| | - George Enninful
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (S.K.M.); (T.A.); (M.S.); (J.S.); (B.R.); (M.W.)
| | - Manjulatha Sara
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (S.K.M.); (T.A.); (M.S.); (J.S.); (B.R.); (M.W.)
| | - Jiawei Shen
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (S.K.M.); (T.A.); (M.S.); (J.S.); (B.R.); (M.W.)
| | - Dittu Suresh
- School of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Liangjun Zheng
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, University of Northwest A&F, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Elias Shiferaw Mekonen
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (S.K.M.); (T.A.); (M.S.); (J.S.); (B.R.); (M.W.)
| | - Binod Rayamajhee
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (S.K.M.); (T.A.); (M.S.); (J.S.); (B.R.); (M.W.)
| | | | | | - Mark Willcox
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (S.K.M.); (T.A.); (M.S.); (J.S.); (B.R.); (M.W.)
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3
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Li N, Zhang J, Yu F, Ye F, Tan W, Hao L, Li S, Deng J, Hu X. Garlic-Derived Quorum Sensing Inhibitors: A Novel Strategy Against Fungal Resistance. Drug Des Devel Ther 2024; 18:6413-6426. [PMID: 39749188 PMCID: PMC11693938 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s503302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2024] [Accepted: 12/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/04/2025] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the incidence of fungal infections has been rising annually, especially among immunocompromised populations, posing a significant challenge to public health. Although antifungal medications provide some relief, the escalating problem of resistance sharply curtails their effectiveness, presenting an urgent clinical dilemma that demands immediate attention. Research has shown that fungal resistance is closely related to quorum sensing (QS), and QS inhibitors (QSIs) are considered an effective solution to this issue. Garlic, as a natural QSI, has demonstrated significant effects in inhibiting fungal growth, preventing biofilm formation, enhancing immunity, and combating resistance. This study explores the potential of garlic in mitigating fungal drug resistance and identifies its key role in inhibiting the QS mechanism, these findings offer a new perspective for the treatment of fungal infections, especially in addressing the increasingly severe problem of resistance. However, the clinical application of garlic still faces several challenges, such as ensuring the standardization of active ingredient extraction, as well as issues of safety and stability. Future research should focus on the QS mechanism and promote interdisciplinary collaboration to develop more natural, effective, and safe QSI drugs like garlic, while actively conducting clinical trials to validate their efficacy and safety. Additionally, incorporating advanced technologies such as nanotechnology to enhance drug stability and targeting, provide a more comprehensive strategy for the treatment of fungal infections. Overall, Our study provides scientific evidence supporting the potential of garlic as a novel antifungal treatment and lays the groundwork for the development of future natural QSIs for therapeutic use. It offers new insights, particularly for the treatment of immunocompromised populations and drug-resistant fungal strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junli Zhang
- Jiangsu Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fei Yu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fanghang Ye
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wanying Tan
- Center for Infectious Diseases, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liyuan Hao
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shenghao Li
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiali Deng
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyu Hu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
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Sajjad B, Siddique A, Rasool K, Jabbar KA, El-Malah SS, Almomani F, Alfarra MR. Seasonal and spatial variations in concentration, diversity, and antibiotic resistance of ambient bioaerosols in an arid region. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 262:119879. [PMID: 39243843 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 08/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
The airborne microbiome significantly influences human health and atmospheric processes within Earth's troposphere and is a crucial focus for scientific research. This study aimed to analyze the composition, diversity, distribution, and spatiotemporal characteristics of airborne microbes in Qatar's ambient air. Air samples were collected using a sampler from ten geographically or functionally distinct locations during a period of one year. Spatial and seasonal variations significantly impacted microbial concentrations, with the highest average concentrations observed at 514 ± 77 CFU/m3 for bacteria over the dry-hot summer season and 134 ± 31 CFU/m3 for fungi over the mild winter season. Bacterial concentrations were notably high in 80% of the locations during the dry-hot summer sampling period, while fungal concentrations peaked in 70% of the locations during winter. The microbial diversity analysis revealed several health-significant bacteria including the genera Chryseobacterium, Pseudomonas, Pantoea, Proteus, Myroides, Yersinia, Pasteurella, Ochrobactrum, Vibrio, and fungal strains relating to the genera Aspergillus, Rhizopus Fusarium, and Penicillium. Detailed biochemical and microscopic analyses were employed to identify culturable species. The strongest antibiotic resistance (ABR) was observed during the humid-hot summer season, with widespread resistance to Metronidazole. Health risk assessments based on these findings indicated potential risks associated with exposure to high concentrations of specific bioaerosols. This study provides essential baseline data on the natural background concentrations of bioaerosols in Qatar, offering insights for air quality assessments and forming a basis for public health policy recommendations, particularly in arid regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal Sajjad
- Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, P.O. Box 5825, Doha, Qatar; Department of Chemical Engineering, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Azhar Siddique
- Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, P.O. Box 5825, Doha, Qatar
| | - Kashif Rasool
- Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, P.O. Box 5825, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Khadeeja Abdul Jabbar
- Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, P.O. Box 5825, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shimaa S El-Malah
- Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, P.O. Box 5825, Doha, Qatar
| | - Fares Almomani
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Qatar University, P. O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - M Rami Alfarra
- Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, P.O. Box 5825, Doha, Qatar
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Oka T, Okuno A, Hira D, Teramoto T, Chihara Y, Hirata R, Kadooka C, Kakuta Y. Substrate binding and catalytic mechanism of UDP-α-D-galactofuranose: β-galactofuranoside β-(1→5)-galactofuranosyltransferase GfsA. PNAS NEXUS 2024; 3:pgae482. [PMID: 39507050 PMCID: PMC11538602 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 10/20/2024] [Indexed: 11/08/2024]
Abstract
UDP-α-D-galactofuranose (UDP-Galf): β-galactofuranoside β-(1→5)-galactofuranosyltransferase, known as GfsA, is essential in synthesizing β-(1→5)-galactofuranosyl oligosaccharides that are incorporated into the cell wall of pathogenic fungi. This study analyzed the structure and function of GfsA from Aspergillus fumigatus. To provide crucial insights into the catalytic mechanism and substrate recognition, the complex structure was elucidated with manganese (Mn2+), a donor substrate product (UDP), and an acceptor sugar molecule (β-galactofuranose). In addition to the typical GT-A fold domain, GfsA has a unique domain formed by the N and C termini. The former interacts with the GT-A of another GfsA, forming a dimer. The active center that contains Mn2+, UDP, and galactofuranose forms a groove structure that is highly conserved in the GfsA of Pezizomycotina fungi. Enzymatic assays using site-directed mutants were conducted to determine the roles of specific active-site residues in the enzymatic activity of GfsA. The predicted enzyme-substrate complex model containing UDP-Galf characterized a specific β-galactofuranosyltransfer mechanism to the 5'-OH of β-galactofuranose. Overall, the structure of GfsA in pathogenic fungi provides insights into the complex glycan biosynthetic processes of fungal pathogenesis and may inform the development of novel antifungal therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuji Oka
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Faculty of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Sojo University, 4-22-1 Ikeda, Nishi-ku, Kumamoto 860-0082, Japan
| | - Ayana Okuno
- Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Daisuke Hira
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Faculty of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Sojo University, 4-22-1 Ikeda, Nishi-ku, Kumamoto 860-0082, Japan
| | - Takamasa Teramoto
- Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Yuria Chihara
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Faculty of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Sojo University, 4-22-1 Ikeda, Nishi-ku, Kumamoto 860-0082, Japan
| | - Rio Hirata
- Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Chihiro Kadooka
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Faculty of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, Sojo University, 4-22-1 Ikeda, Nishi-ku, Kumamoto 860-0082, Japan
| | - Yoshimitsu Kakuta
- Laboratory of Biophysical Chemistry, Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
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Wolfgruber S, Salmanton-García J, Kuate MPN, Hoenigl M, Brunelli JGP. Antifungal pipeline: New tools for the treatment of mycoses. Rev Iberoam Micol 2024; 41:68-78. [PMID: 40023755 DOI: 10.1016/j.riam.2024.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2024] [Revised: 10/16/2024] [Accepted: 11/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/04/2025] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections are becoming an escalating public health challenge, particularly among immunocompromised individuals. The partially limited efficacy of current antifungal treatments, their potential adverse effects, and the increasing problem of resistance emphasize the need for new treatment options. Existing antifungal classes-allylamines, azoles, echinocandins, polyenes, and pyrimidine analogs-face challenges due to their similarity with human cells and rising resistance. New antifungal agents, such as ibrexafungerp, rezafungin, oteseconazole, and miltefosine, offer novel mechanisms of action along with reduced toxicity. While antifungal resistance is a growing global concern, fungal infections in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) present specific challenges with high rates of opportunistic infections like cryptococcosis and endemic mycoses such as histoplasmosis. The World Health Organization's fungal priority pathogens list highlights the prevalence of these infections in LMICs, where limited access to antifungal drugs and misuse are common. This review provides a comprehensive overview of these new agents and their mechanisms, and explores the challenges and roles of antifungal drugs in LMICs, where the burden of fungal infections is high. Continued research and development are essential to address the rising incidence and resistance of fungal infections globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Wolfgruber
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria; Translational Medical Mycology Research Unit, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
| | - Jon Salmanton-García
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Institute of Translational Research, Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany; Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf (CIO ABCD) and Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Martin Hoenigl
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria; Translational Medical Mycology Research Unit, ECMM Excellence Center for Medical Mycology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria.
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Sepúlveda VE, Goldman WE, Matute DR. Genotypic diversity, virulence, and molecular genetic tools in Histoplasma. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2024; 88:e0007623. [PMID: 38819148 PMCID: PMC11332355 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00076-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYHistoplasmosis is arguably the most common fungal respiratory infection worldwide, with hundreds of thousands of new infections occurring annually in the United States alone. The infection can progress in the lung or disseminate to visceral organs and can be difficult to treat with antifungal drugs. Histoplasma, the causative agent of the disease, is a pathogenic fungus that causes life-threatening lung infections and is globally distributed. The fungus has the ability to germinate from conidia into either hyphal (mold) or yeast form, depending on the environmental temperature. This transition also regulates virulence. Histoplasma and histoplasmosis have been classified as being of emergent importance, and in 2022, the World Health Organization included Histoplasma as 1 of the 19 most concerning human fungal pathogens. In this review, we synthesize the current understanding of the ecological niche, evolutionary history, and virulence strategies of Histoplasma. We also describe general patterns of the symptomatology and epidemiology of histoplasmosis. We underscore areas where research is sorely needed and highlight research avenues that have been productive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria E. Sepúlveda
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - William E. Goldman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Daniel R. Matute
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Hachimi O, Falender R, Davis G, Wafula RV, Sutton M, Bancroft J, Cieslak P, Kelly C, Kaya D, Radniecki T. Evaluation of molecular-based methods for the detection and quantification of Cryptosporidium spp. in wastewater. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 947:174219. [PMID: 38917908 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium poses significant public health risks as a cause of waterborne disease worldwide. Clinical surveillance of cryptosporidiosis is largely underreported due to the asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic infections, clinical misdiagnoses, and barriers to access testing. Wastewater surveillance overcomes these limitations and could serve as an effective tool for identifying cryptosporidiosis at the population level. Despite its potential, the lack of standardized wastewater surveillance methods for Cryptosporidium spp. challenges implementation design and the comparability between studies. Thus, this study compared and contrasted Cryptosporidium wastewater surveillance methods for concentrating wastewater oocysts, extracting oocyst DNA, and detecting Cryptosporidium genetic markers. The evaluated concentration methods included electronegative membrane filtration, Envirocheck HV capsule filtration, centrifugation, and Nanotrap Microbiome Particles, with and without additional immunomagnetic separation purification (except for the Nanotrap Microbiome Particles). Oocyst DNA extraction by either the DNeasy Powersoil Pro kit and the QIAamp DNA Mini kit were evaluated and the impact of bead beating and freeze-thaw pretreatments on DNA recoveries was assessed. Genetic detection via qPCR assays targeting either the Cryptosporidium 18S rRNA gene or the Cryptosporidium oocyst wall protein gene were tested. Oocyst recovery percentages were highest for centrifugation (39-77 %), followed by the Nanotrap Microbiome Particles (24 %), electronegative filtration with a PBST elution (22 %), and Envirocheck HV capsule filtration (13 %). Immunomagnetic separation purification was found to be unsuitable due to interference from the wastewater matrix. Bead-beating pretreatment enhanced DNA recoveries from both the DNeasy Powersoil Pro kit (314 gc/μL DNA) and the QIAamp DNA Mini kit (238 gc/μL DNA). In contrast, freeze-thaw pretreatment reduced DNA recoveries to under 92 gc/μL DNA, likely through DNA degradation. Finally, while both qPCR assays were specific to Cryptosporidium spp., the 18S rRNA assay had a 5-fold lower detection limit and could detect a wider range of Cryptosporidium spp. than the Cryptosporidium oocyst wall protein assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oumaima Hachimi
- School of Chemical, Biological, and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, 116 Johnson Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Rebecca Falender
- Oregon Health Authority, 800 NE Oregon St, Portland, OR 97232, USA
| | - Gabriel Davis
- School of Chemical, Biological, and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, 116 Johnson Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Rispa Vranka Wafula
- School of Chemical, Biological, and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, 116 Johnson Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Melissa Sutton
- Oregon Health Authority, 800 NE Oregon St, Portland, OR 97232, USA
| | - June Bancroft
- Oregon Health Authority, 800 NE Oregon St, Portland, OR 97232, USA
| | - Paul Cieslak
- Oregon Health Authority, 800 NE Oregon St, Portland, OR 97232, USA
| | - Christine Kelly
- School of Chemical, Biological, and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, 116 Johnson Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Devrim Kaya
- School of Chemical, Biological, and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, 116 Johnson Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Tyler Radniecki
- School of Chemical, Biological, and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, 116 Johnson Hall, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA.
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9
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Coelho MA, David-Palma M, Shea T, Bowers K, McGinley-Smith S, Mohammad AW, Gnirke A, Yurkov AM, Nowrousian M, Sun S, Cuomo CA, Heitman J. Comparative genomics of the closely related fungal genera Cryptococcus and Kwoniella reveals karyotype dynamics and suggests evolutionary mechanisms of pathogenesis. PLoS Biol 2024; 22:e3002682. [PMID: 38843310 PMCID: PMC11185503 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
In exploring the evolutionary trajectories of both pathogenesis and karyotype dynamics in fungi, we conducted a large-scale comparative genomic analysis spanning the Cryptococcus genus, encompassing both global human fungal pathogens and nonpathogenic species, and related species from the sister genus Kwoniella. Chromosome-level genome assemblies were generated for multiple species, covering virtually all known diversity within these genera. Although Cryptococcus and Kwoniella have comparable genome sizes (about 19.2 and 22.9 Mb) and similar gene content, hinting at preadaptive pathogenic potential, our analysis found evidence of gene gain (via horizontal gene transfer) and gene loss in pathogenic Cryptococcus species, which might represent evolutionary signatures of pathogenic development. Genome analysis also revealed a significant variation in chromosome number and structure between the 2 genera. By combining synteny analysis and experimental centromere validation, we found that most Cryptococcus species have 14 chromosomes, whereas most Kwoniella species have fewer (11, 8, 5, or even as few as 3). Reduced chromosome number in Kwoniella is associated with formation of giant chromosomes (up to 18 Mb) through repeated chromosome fusion events, each marked by a pericentric inversion and centromere loss. While similar chromosome inversion-fusion patterns were observed in all Kwoniella species with fewer than 14 chromosomes, no such pattern was detected in Cryptococcus. Instead, Cryptococcus species with less than 14 chromosomes showed reductions primarily through rearrangements associated with the loss of repeat-rich centromeres. Additionally, Cryptococcus genomes exhibited frequent interchromosomal translocations, including intercentromeric recombination facilitated by transposons shared between centromeres. Overall, our findings advance our understanding of genetic changes possibly associated with pathogenicity in Cryptococcus and provide a foundation to elucidate mechanisms of centromere loss and chromosome fusion driving distinct karyotypes in closely related fungal species, including prominent global human pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco A. Coelho
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Márcia David-Palma
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Terrance Shea
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Katharine Bowers
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sage McGinley-Smith
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Arman W. Mohammad
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Andreas Gnirke
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Andrey M. Yurkov
- Leibniz Institute DSMZ-German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Minou Nowrousian
- Lehrstuhl für Molekulare und Zelluläre Botanik, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sheng Sun
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Christina A. Cuomo
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Joseph Heitman
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
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10
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Firdous Z, Kalra S, Chattopadhyay R, Bari VK. Current insight into the role of mRNA decay pathways in fungal pathogenesis. Microbiol Res 2024; 283:127671. [PMID: 38479232 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2024.127671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Pathogenic fungal species can cause superficial and mucosal infections, to potentially fatal systemic or invasive infections in humans. These infections are more common in immunocompromised or critically ill patients and have a significant morbidity and fatality rate. Fungal pathogens utilize several strategies to adapt the host environment resulting in efficient and comprehensive alterations in their cellular metabolism. Fungal virulence is regulated by several factors and post-transcriptional regulation mechanisms involving mRNA molecules are one of them. Post-transcriptional controls have emerged as critical regulatory mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of fungal species. The untranslated upstream and downstream regions of the mRNA, as well as RNA-binding proteins, regulate morphogenesis and virulence by controlling mRNA degradation and stability. The limited number of available therapeutic drugs, the emergence of multidrug resistance, and high death rates associated with systemic fungal illnesses pose a serious risk to human health. Therefore, new antifungal treatments that specifically target mRNA pathway components can decrease fungal pathogenicity and when combined increase the effectiveness of currently available antifungal drugs. This review summarizes the mRNA degradation pathways and their role in fungal pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zulikha Firdous
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO-Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Sapna Kalra
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO-Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Rituja Chattopadhyay
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO-Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India
| | - Vinay Kumar Bari
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO-Ghudda, Bathinda 151401, India.
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11
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Jeewon R, Pudaruth SB, Bhoyroo V, Aullybux AA, Rajeshkumar KC, Alrefaei AF. Antioxidant and Antifungal Properties of Cinnamon, Cloves, Melia azedarach L. and Ocimum gratissimum L. Extracts against Fusarium oxysporum Isolated from Infected Vegetables in Mauritius. Pathogens 2024; 13:436. [PMID: 38921734 PMCID: PMC11206713 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13060436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fusarium species, a group of economically destructive phytopathogens, are poorly studied in Mauritius where agriculture holds much significance. Furthermore, the increasing popularity of organic farming has prompted interest in alternatives to chemical fungicides. METHODS After gaining an overview of Fusarium prevalence in Mauritius fields through a survey, the pathogen was isolated from infected crops and identified based on morphological and molecular characteristics. Methanol and water extracts were then prepared from Melia azedarach, Ocimum gratissimum, cinnamon and cloves before determining their phytochemical profiles. Additionally, the antioxidant and antifungal effects of different concentrations of aqueous extracts were assessed. RESULTS The isolate was confirmed as Fusarium oxysporum, and cloves inhibited its growth by up to 100%, especially at 60 and 90 g/L, with the results being significantly higher than those of the synthetic fungicide mancozeb. Over 50% inhibition was also noted for cinnamon and Ocimum gratissimum, and these effects could be linked to the flavonoids, phenols and terpenoids in the extracts. CONCLUSION This study presented the aqueous extracts of cloves, cinnamon and Ocimum gratissimum as potential alternatives to chemical fungicides. It also confirmed the prevalence of Fusarium infection in Mauritius fields, thereby highlighting the need for additional studies on the pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh Jeewon
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Mauritius, Réduit 80837, Mauritius
| | - Shaan B. Pudaruth
- Department of Agricultural and Food Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Mauritius, Réduit 80837, Mauritius
| | - Vishwakalyan Bhoyroo
- Department of Agricultural and Food Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Mauritius, Réduit 80837, Mauritius
| | - Aadil Ahmad Aullybux
- Department of Agricultural and Food Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Mauritius, Réduit 80837, Mauritius
| | - Kunhiraman C. Rajeshkumar
- National Fungal Culture Collection of India (NFCCI), Biodiversity and Palaeobiology (Fungi) Gr., MACS Agharkar Research Institute, G. G. Agarkar Road, Pune 411 004, Maharashtra, India
| | - Abdulwahed Fahad Alrefaei
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
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12
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Lakhani DA, Deng F, Lin DDM. Infectious Diseases of the Brain and Spine: Fungal Diseases. Magn Reson Imaging Clin N Am 2024; 32:335-346. [PMID: 38555144 DOI: 10.1016/j.mric.2024.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Advances in treatments of autoimmune diseases, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, organ transplantation, and the use of long-term devices have increased the rates of atypical infections due to prolonged immune suppression. There is a significant overlap in imaging findings of various fungal infections affecting the central nervous system (CNS), often mimicking those seen in neoplastic and noninfectious inflammatory conditions. Nonetheless, there are imaging characteristics that can aid in distinguishing certain atypical infections. Hence, familiarity with a wide range of infectious agents is an important part of diagnostic neuroradiology. In this article, an in-depth review of fungal diseases of the CNS is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhairya A Lakhani
- Division of Neuroradiology, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Phipps B-100 Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Francis Deng
- Division of Neuroradiology, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Phipps B-100 Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Doris D M Lin
- Division of Neuroradiology, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe Street, Phipps B-100 Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
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13
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Rhodes AC, Plowes RM, Bowman EA, Gaitho A, Ng'Iru I, Martins DJ, Gilbert LE. Systematic reduction of natural enemies and competition across variable precipitation approximates buffelgrass invasiveness ( Cenchrus ciliaris) in its native range. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11350. [PMID: 38737568 PMCID: PMC11087885 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Invasive grasses cause devastating losses to biodiversity and ecosystem function directly and indirectly by altering ecosystem processes. Escape from natural enemies, plant-plant competition, and variable resource availability provide frameworks for understanding invasion. However, we lack a clear understanding of how natural stressors interact in their native range to regulate invasiveness. In this study, we reduced diverse guilds of natural enemies and plant competitors of the highly invasive buffelgrass across a precipitation gradient throughout major climatic shifts in Laikipia, Kenya. To do this, we used a long-term ungulate exclosure experiment design across a precipitation gradient with nested treatments that (1) reduced plant competition through clipping, (2) reduced insects through systemic insecticide, and (3) reduced fungal associates through fungicide application. Additionally, we measured the interaction of ungulates on two stem-boring insect species feeding on buffelgrass. Finally, we measured a multiyear smut fungus outbreak. Our findings suggest that buffelgrass exhibits invasive qualities when released from a diverse group of natural stressors in its native range. We show natural enemies interact with precipitation to alter buffelgrass productivity patterns. In addition, interspecific plant competition decreased the basal area of buffelgrass, suggesting that biotic resistance mediates buffelgrass dominance in the home range. Surprisingly, systemic insecticides and fungicides did not impact buffelgrass production or reproduction, perhaps because other guilds filled the niche space in these highly diverse systems. For example, in the absence of ungulates, we showed an increase in host-specific stem-galling insects, where these insects compensated for reduced ungulate use. Finally, we documented a smut outbreak in 2020 and 2021, corresponding to highly variable precipitation patterns caused by a shifting Indian Ocean Dipole. In conclusion, we observed how reducing natural enemies and competitors and certain interactions increased properties related to buffelgrass invasiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron C. Rhodes
- Brackenridge Field LaboratoryThe University of Texas at AustinAustinTexasUSA
| | - Robert M. Plowes
- Brackenridge Field LaboratoryThe University of Texas at AustinAustinTexasUSA
| | - Elizabeth A. Bowman
- Brackenridge Field LaboratoryThe University of Texas at AustinAustinTexasUSA
- Hiro Technologies, IncAustinTexasUSA
| | - Aimee Gaitho
- Mpala Research Centre NanyukiNanyukiKenya
- Turkana Basin InstituteNairobiKenya
| | - Ivy Ng'Iru
- UK Centre for Ecology & HydrologyCardiff UniversityWallingfordUK
| | | | - Lawrence E. Gilbert
- Brackenridge Field LaboratoryThe University of Texas at AustinAustinTexasUSA
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14
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Zhao P, Yu Z, Huang JP, Wang L, Huang SX, Yang J. Four unreported aporphine alkaloids with antifungal activities from Artabotrys hexapetalus. Fitoterapia 2024; 174:105868. [PMID: 38378133 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2024.105868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
In this study, the extract from Artabotrys hexapetalus showed strong antifungal activity against phytopathogenic fungi in vitro. Four unreported aporphine alkaloids, hexapetalusine A-D (1-4), were isolated from stems and roots of Artabotrys hexapetalus (L.f.) Bhandari, along with six known aporphine alkaloids (5-10). Their chemical structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis. The absolute configurations of 1-3 were determined using single-crystal X-ray diffractions and ECD calculations. Hexapetalusine A-C (1-3) were special amidic isomers. Additionally, all isolated compounds were evaluated for their antifungal activity against four phytopathogenic fungi in vitro. Hexapetalusine D (4) exhibited weak antifungal activity against Curvularia lunata. Liriodenine (5) displayed significant antifungal activity against Fusarium proliferatum and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum, which is obviously better than positive control nystatin, suggesting that it had great potential to be developed into an effective and eco-friendly fungicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Zhao
- College of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China; State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China; Yinchuan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yinchuan, China
| | - Zhiyin Yu
- College of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Jian-Ping Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Li Wang
- College of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Sheng-Xiong Huang
- College of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China; State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.
| | - Jing Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Phytochemistry and Plant Resources in West China, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.
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15
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Coelho MA, David-Palma M, Shea T, Bowers K, McGinley-Smith S, Mohammad AW, Gnirke A, Yurkov AM, Nowrousian M, Sun S, Cuomo CA, Heitman J. Comparative genomics of Cryptococcus and Kwoniella reveals pathogenesis evolution and contrasting karyotype dynamics via intercentromeric recombination or chromosome fusion. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.12.27.573464. [PMID: 38234769 PMCID: PMC10793447 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.27.573464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
A large-scale comparative genomic analysis was conducted for the global human fungal pathogens within the Cryptococcus genus, compared to non-pathogenic Cryptococcus species, and related species from the sister genus Kwoniella. Chromosome-level genome assemblies were generated for multiple species of both genera, resulting in a dataset encompassing virtually all of their known diversity. Although Cryptococcus and Kwoniella have comparable genome sizes (about 19.2 and 22.9 Mb) and similar gene content, hinting at pre-adaptive pathogenic potential, our analysis found evidence in pathogenic Cryptococcus species of specific examples of gene gain (via horizontal gene transfer) and gene loss, which might represent evolutionary signatures of pathogenic development. Genome analysis also revealed a significant variation in chromosome number and structure between the two genera. By combining synteny analysis and experimental centromere validation, we found that most Cryptococcus species have 14 chromosomes, whereas most Kwoniella species have fewer (11, 8, 5 or even as few as 3). Reduced chromosome number in Kwoniella is associated with formation of giant chromosomes (up to 18 Mb) through repeated chromosome fusion events, each marked by a pericentric inversion and centromere loss. While similar chromosome inversion-fusion patterns were observed in all Kwoniella species with fewer than 14 chromosomes, no such pattern was detected in Cryptococcus. Instead, Cryptococcus species with less than 14 chromosomes, underwent chromosome reductions primarily through rearrangements associated with the loss of repeat-rich centromeres. Additionally, Cryptococcus genomes exhibited frequent interchromosomal translocations, including intercentromeric recombination facilitated by transposons shared between centromeres. Taken together, our findings advance our understanding of genomic changes possibly associated with pathogenicity in Cryptococcus and provide a foundation to elucidate mechanisms of centromere loss and chromosome fusion driving distinct karyotypes in closely related fungal species, including prominent global human pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco A. Coelho
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Márcia David-Palma
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Terrance Shea
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katharine Bowers
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Andreas Gnirke
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrey M. Yurkov
- Leibniz Institute DSMZ-German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Minou Nowrousian
- Lehrstuhl für Molekulare und Zelluläre Botanik, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sheng Sun
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Joseph Heitman
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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16
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Young MR, Heit S, Bublitz M. Structure, function and biogenesis of the fungal proton pump Pma1. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2024; 1871:119600. [PMID: 37741574 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2023.119600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
The fungal plasma membrane proton pump Pma1 is an integral plasma membrane protein of the P-type ATPase family. It is an essential enzyme responsible for maintaining a constant cytosolic pH and for energising the plasma membrane to secondary transport processes. Due to its importance for fungal survival and absence from animals, Pma1 is also a highly sought-after drug target. Until recently, its characterisation has been limited to functional, mutational and localisation studies, due to a lack of high-resolution structural information. The determination of three cryo-EM structures of Pma1 in its unique hexameric state offers a new level of understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the protein's stability, regulated activity and druggability. In light of this context, this article aims to review what we currently know about the structure, function and biogenesis of fungal Pma1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret R Young
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, United Kingdom
| | - Sabine Heit
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, United Kingdom
| | - Maike Bublitz
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, United Kingdom.
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17
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Jiang W, Zhou M, Chen S, Xie J, Chen M, Zhang H, Wu Y, Chen X, Liu R. Peptide-Mimicking Poly(2-oxazoline)s Possessing Potent Antifungal Activity and BBB Penetrating Property to Treat Invasive Infections and Meningitis. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:25753-25765. [PMID: 37966432 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c09240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections, including meningitis, cause a high mortality rate due to few available antifungal drugs and frequently associated side effects and quick emergence of drug-resistant fungi. The restrictive permeability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) further limits the efficacy of antifungal agents substantially in treating meningitis. Hereby, we design and synthesize guanidinium-functionalized poly(2-oxazoline)s by mimicking cell-penetrating peptides. The optimal polymer, PGMeOx10 bearing a methylene spacer arm, displays potent activities against the drug-resistant fungi and biofilm, negligible toxicity, and insusceptibility to antimicrobial resistance. Moreover, PGMeOx10 can break BBB retractions to exert promising antifungal functions in the brain. PGMeOx10 demonstrates potent in vivo antifungal therapeutic efficacy in mouse models including skin infection, systemic infections, and meningitis. PGMeOx10 effectively rescues infected mice and reduces fungal burden and inflammation in the brain. These results and the excellent biosafety of poly(2-oxazoline)s indicate the effectiveness and potential of our strategy to design promising antifungal agents in treating systemic infections and meningitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weinan Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
- Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Min Zhou
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Sheng Chen
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Jiayang Xie
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Minzhang Chen
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Haodong Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Yueming Wu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Runhui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
- Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
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18
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Almeida-Paes R, Frases S. Repurposing drugs for fungal infections: advantages and limitations. Future Microbiol 2023; 18:1013-1016. [PMID: 37721174 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2023-0108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Tweetable abstract Repurposing existing drugs for fungal infections has demonstrated potential in both in vitro and animal models, but there are still obstacles to overcome for clinical application. #antifungal #drugrepurposing #fungalinfections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Almeida-Paes
- Laboratório de Micologia, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-360, Brazil
- Rede Micologia - FAPERJ, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Susana Frases
- Rede Micologia - FAPERJ, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-360, Brazil
- Laboratório de Biofísica de Fungos, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Cidade Universitária, Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-360, Brazil
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19
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Wahab S, Salman A, Khan Z, Khan S, Krishnaraj C, Yun SI. Metallic Nanoparticles: A Promising Arsenal against Antimicrobial Resistance-Unraveling Mechanisms and Enhancing Medication Efficacy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14897. [PMID: 37834344 PMCID: PMC10573543 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The misuse of antibiotics and antimycotics accelerates the emergence of antimicrobial resistance, prompting the need for novel strategies to combat this global issue. Metallic nanoparticles have emerged as effective tools for combating various resistant microbes. Numerous studies have highlighted their potential in addressing antibiotic-resistant fungi and bacterial strains. Understanding the mechanisms of action of these nanoparticles, including iron-oxide, gold, zinc oxide, and silver is a central focus of research within the life science community. Various hypotheses have been proposed regarding how nanoparticles exert their effects. Some suggest direct targeting of microbial cell membranes, while others emphasize the release of ions from nanoparticles. The most compelling proposed antimicrobial mechanism of nanoparticles involves oxidative damage caused by nanoparticles-generated reactive oxygen species. This review aims to consolidate knowledge, discuss the properties and mechanisms of action of metallic nanoparticles, and underscore their potential as alternatives to enhance the efficacy of existing medications against infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahid Wahab
- Department of Food Science and Technology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea; (S.W.); (C.K.)
- Department of Agricultural Convergence Technology, College of Agriculture and Life Science, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Alishba Salman
- Nanobiotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology University of Malakand, Dir Lower, Chakdara 18800, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan; (A.S.); (Z.K.); (S.K.)
| | - Zaryab Khan
- Nanobiotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology University of Malakand, Dir Lower, Chakdara 18800, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan; (A.S.); (Z.K.); (S.K.)
| | - Sadia Khan
- Nanobiotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology University of Malakand, Dir Lower, Chakdara 18800, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan; (A.S.); (Z.K.); (S.K.)
| | - Chandran Krishnaraj
- Department of Food Science and Technology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea; (S.W.); (C.K.)
- Department of Agricultural Convergence Technology, College of Agriculture and Life Science, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea
| | - Soon-Il Yun
- Department of Food Science and Technology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea; (S.W.); (C.K.)
- Department of Agricultural Convergence Technology, College of Agriculture and Life Science, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea
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20
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Hassoun N, Kassem II, Hamze M, El Tom J, Papon N, Osman M. Antifungal Use and Resistance in a Lower-Middle-Income Country: The Case of Lebanon. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1413. [PMID: 37760710 PMCID: PMC10525119 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12091413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is a serious threat, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Antifungal resistance is often underestimated in both healthcare and non-clinical settings. In LMICs, it is believed that the inappropriate use of antifungals, limited surveillance systems, and low diagnostic capacities are significant drivers of resistance. Like other LMICs, Lebanon lacks antifungal use and resistance surveillance programs, and the impact of antifungal resistance in the country remains unclear, especially during the unfolding economic crisis that has severely affected medical care and access to safe food and water. Interestingly, the widespread use of antifungals in medicine and agriculture has raised concerns about the development of antifungal resistance in Lebanon. In this light, we aimed to survey available antifungal drugs in the country and evaluate susceptibility patterns of prevalent fungal species to guide empiric treatments and develop antifungal stewardship programs in Lebanon. We noted that the economic crisis resulted in significant increases in antifungal drug prices. Additionally, a comprehensive literature search across PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases identified 15 studies on fungal infections and antifungal resistance conducted from 1998 to 2023 in Lebanon. While data on antifungal resistance are limited, 87% of available studies in Lebanon focused on candidiasis, while the remaining 13% were on aspergillosis. Overall, we observed a marked antimicrobial resistance among Candida and Aspergillus species. Additionally, incidences of Candida auris infections have increased in Lebanese hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a uniform resistance to fluconazole and amphotericin-B. Taken together, a One Health approach, reliable diagnostics, and prudent antifungal use are required to control the spread of resistant fungal pathogens in healthcare and agricultural settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nesrine Hassoun
- Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon;
| | - Issmat I. Kassem
- Center for Food Safety, Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Georgia, 1109 Experiment Street, Griffin, GA 30223, USA;
| | - Monzer Hamze
- Laboratoire Microbiologie Santé et Environnement (LMSE), Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon;
| | - Jad El Tom
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese American University, Byblos 1401, Lebanon;
| | - Nicolas Papon
- University of Angers, University of Brest, IRF, SFR ICAT, F-49000 Angers, France;
| | - Marwan Osman
- Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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21
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Martins C, Piontkivska D, Mil-Homens D, Guedes P, Jorge JMP, Brinco J, Bárria C, Santos ACF, Barras R, Arraiano C, Fialho A, Goldman GH, Silva Pereira C. Increased Production of Pathogenic, Airborne Fungal Spores upon Exposure of a Soil Mycobiota to Chlorinated Aromatic Hydrocarbon Pollutants. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0066723. [PMID: 37284774 PMCID: PMC10434042 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00667-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Organic pollutants are omnipresent and can penetrate all environmental niches. We evaluated the hypothesis that short-term (acute) exposure to aromatic hydrocarbon pollutants could increase the potential for fungal virulence. Specifically, we analyzed whether pentachlorophenol and triclosan pollution results in the production of airborne fungal spores with greater virulence than those derived from an unpolluted (Control) condition. Each pollutant altered the composition of the community of airborne spores compared to the control, favoring an increase in strains with in vivo infection capacity (the wax moth Galleria mellonella was used as an infection model). Fungi subsisting inside larvae at 72 h postinjection with airborne spore inocula collected in polluted and unpolluted conditions exhibited comparable diversity (mainly within Aspergillus fumigatus). Several virulent Aspergillus strains were isolated from larvae infected with the airborne spores produced in a polluted environment. Meanwhile, strains isolated from larvae injected with spores from the control, including one A. fumigatus strain, showed no virulence. Potential pathogenicity increased when two Aspergillus virulent strains were assembled, suggesting the existence of synergisms that impact pathogenicity. None of the observed taxonomic or functional traits could separate the virulent from the avirulent strains. Our study emphasizes pollution stress as a possible driver of phenotypic adaptations that increase Aspergillus pathogenicity, as well as the need to better understand the interplay between pollution and fungal virulence. IMPORTANCE Fungi colonizing soil and organic pollutants often meet. The consequences of this encounter constitute an outstanding question. We scrutinized the potential for virulence of airborne fungal spores produced under unpolluted and polluted scenarios. The airborne spores showed increased diversity of strains with higher infection capacity in Galleria mellonella whenever pollution is present. Inside the larvae injected with either airborne spore community, the surviving fungi demonstrated a similar diversity, mainly within Aspergillus fumigatus. However, the isolated Aspergillus strains greatly differ since virulence was only observed for those associated with a polluted environment. The interplay between pollution and fungal virulence still hides many unresolved questions, but the encounter is costly: pollution stress promotes phenotypic adaptations that may increase Aspergillus pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celso Martins
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Daryna Piontkivska
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Dalila Mil-Homens
- Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences and Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Paula Guedes
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
- CENSE (Center for Environmental and Sustainability Research)/CHANGE (Global Change and Sustainability Institute), NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
| | - João M. P. Jorge
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - João Brinco
- CENSE (Center for Environmental and Sustainability Research)/CHANGE (Global Change and Sustainability Institute), NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Cátia Bárria
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ariana C. F. Santos
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Barras
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Cecília Arraiano
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Arsénio Fialho
- Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences and Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Bioengineering, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Gustavo H. Goldman
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Cristina Silva Pereira
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
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Lai Y, Jiang B, Hou F, Huang X, Ling B, Lu H, Zhong T, Huang J. The emerging role of extracellular vesicles in fungi: a double-edged sword. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1216895. [PMID: 37533824 PMCID: PMC10390730 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1216895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungi are eukaryotic microorganisms found in nature, which can invade the human body and cause tissue damage, inflammatory reactions, organ dysfunctions, and diseases. These diseases can severely damage the patient's body systems and functions, leading to a range of clinical symptoms that can be life-threatening. As the incidence of invasive fungal infections has progressively increased in the recent years, a wealth of evidence has confirmed the "double-edged sword" role of fungal extracellular vesicles (EVs) in intercellular communication and pathogen-host interactions. Fungal EVs act as mediators of cellular communication, affecting fungal-host cell interactions, delivering virulence factors, and promoting infection. Fungal EVs can also have an induced protective effect, affecting fungal growth and stimulating adaptive immune responses. By integrating recent studies, we discuss the role of EVs in fungi, providing strong theoretical support for the early prevention and treatment of invasive fungal infections. Finally, we highlight the feasibility of using fungal EVs as drug carriers and in vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Lai
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Bowei Jiang
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Fangpeng Hou
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xinhong Huang
- Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Baodian Ling
- Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Hongfei Lu
- Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Tianyu Zhong
- Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
| | - Junyun Huang
- Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi, China
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Vallières C, Golinelli-Cohen MP, Guittet O, Lepoivre M, Huang ME, Vernis L. Redox-Based Strategies against Infections by Eukaryotic Pathogens. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14040778. [PMID: 37107536 PMCID: PMC10138290 DOI: 10.3390/genes14040778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Redox homeostasis is an equilibrium between reducing and oxidizing reactions within cells. It is an essential, dynamic process, which allows proper cellular reactions and regulates biological responses. Unbalanced redox homeostasis is the hallmark of many diseases, including cancer or inflammatory responses, and can eventually lead to cell death. Specifically, disrupting redox balance, essentially by increasing pro-oxidative molecules and favouring hyperoxidation, is a smart strategy to eliminate cells and has been used for cancer treatment, for example. Selectivity between cancer and normal cells thus appears crucial to avoid toxicity as much as possible. Redox-based approaches are also employed in the case of infectious diseases to tackle the pathogens specifically, with limited impacts on host cells. In this review, we focus on recent advances in redox-based strategies to fight eukaryotic pathogens, especially fungi and eukaryotic parasites. We report molecules recently described for causing or being associated with compromising redox homeostasis in pathogens and discuss therapeutic possibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Vallières
- Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles, CNRS UPR 2301, Université Paris-Saclay, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Marie-Pierre Golinelli-Cohen
- Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles, CNRS UPR 2301, Université Paris-Saclay, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Olivier Guittet
- Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles, CNRS UPR 2301, Université Paris-Saclay, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Michel Lepoivre
- Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles, CNRS UPR 2301, Université Paris-Saclay, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Meng-Er Huang
- Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles, CNRS UPR 2301, Université Paris-Saclay, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Laurence Vernis
- Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles, CNRS UPR 2301, Université Paris-Saclay, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
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Riboflavin Targets the Cellular Metabolic and Ribosomal Pathways of Candida albicans In Vitro and Exhibits Efficacy against Oropharyngeal Candidiasis. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0380122. [PMID: 36625571 PMCID: PMC9927497 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03801-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC), which has a high incidence in immunocompromised and denture stomatitis patients, is commonly caused by Candida albicans infection and in some cases develops into disseminated candidiasis throughout the throat and esophagus, resulting in high mortality. New drugs are needed to combat OPC because of the limited treatment options currently available and increasing resistance to existing drugs. Here, we confirmed that riboflavin (RF), a cofactor of flavin adenine mononucleotide and flavin adenine dinucleotide, has broad-spectrum anti-Candida activity. The formation of C. albicans hyphae and biofilm was inhibited by RF. Mechanistically, RF disrupted membrane and cell wall integrity, as well as promoting reactive oxygen species and pyruvate accumulation. Furthermore, RF targeted multiple essential pathways via functional disruption of thiamine and RF metabolic pathways, central carbon metabolism, and ribosome metabolism. Similar to the results in vitro, the inhibitory effect of RF on C. albicans hyphae was confirmed in a mouse model of OPC. Moreover, after 5 consecutive days of intraperitoneal injection, RF exhibited therapeutic efficacy, as demonstrated by phenotype investigation, the fungal burden, and histopathological analysis. These findings revealed that RF exerts a multifaceted anti-Candida effect and has potential benefits in the treatment of OPC. IMPORTANCE Candida species are common pathogens in fungal infections, causing mucosal infection and invasive infection in immunodeficient patients. Given the limited classes of drugs and resistance to these drugs, new antifungal agents need to be developed. Drug repurposing is a potential method for antifungal drug development. This study demonstrated that riboflavin (RF) exhibited broad-spectrum anti-Candida activity. RF affected multiple targets involving the membrane and cell wall integrity, the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and pyruvate, and the altered metabolic pathways in C. albicans. Moreover, RF exhibited efficacy in the treatment of C. albicans in an oropharyngeal candidiasis mouse model. Taken together, the antifungal activity and the promising clinical application of RF were highlighted.
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Dar GJ, Nazir R, Wani SA, Farooq S. Isolation, molecular characterization and first report of Dothiorella gregaria associated with fruit rot of walnuts of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Microb Pathog 2023; 175:105989. [PMID: 36646293 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.105989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Walnuts are known for their high levels of antioxidants, which are linked to various health benefits. However, challenges related to distribution and storage, as well as the risk of fungal infections, can affect the quality of walnut kernels. Fungal pathogens from the Botryosphaeriaceae family, including Dothiorella species and Diplodia species, can damage fruit and reduce its antioxidant content. To comprehend the cause of fruit rot in walnuts, Dothiorella gregaria isolates were studied using polyphasic methods, including multiple gene sequences and morphological identification, as well as analysis of polyphenol content and pathogenicity. The walnuts kernels purchased from market places of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), India were observed to be affected by Dothiorella gregaria species causing the quality detoriation and decrease in polyphenol content thus undeniably with decreased antioxidant properties. D. gregaria Infected walnut kernels were having some brown and black spots and some were having white mycelial growth and however, most samples were asymptomatic. Pathogenicity testing revealed that the pathogen was able to develop all the symptoms under experimental conditions and the reisolated pathogen was morphologically similar to D. gregaria. The samples infected with this pathogen showed considerable decrease in polyphenol content, 10.9 ± 2.66 mgGAE/g (mean ± standard deviation) thus decreased antioxidant quality as compared to the samples which showed zero incidence of this pathogen, 52.50 ± 4.27 mgGAE/g (mean ± standard deviation). Furthermore, the pathogen was studied using polyphasic approach involving morphological, molecular and phylogenetic analysis. Combined nucleotide dataset of nuclear ribosomal ITS and tef1-α revealed that Dothiorella gregaria (NY6) formed a clade with Dothiorlla iberica (MAEC33), Dothiorella sarmentorium (MAEC28) and Dothiorella iberica (CAA905) strains with 83% bootstrap support. Besides, we observed six nucleotide changes, four were insertions or deletions and two were substitutions in the 502-bp region of the ITS rRNA gene when we compared our isolate to the most equivalent sequences submitted to NCBI GenBank. This is the first report of Dothiorella gregaria affecting walnuts purchased from various markets in J&K, India, causing fruit rot in walnuts after harvest. Given that local farmers store and export walnuts, it could pose an emerging threat to their livelihood. Thus, creating post-harvesting interventions for D. gregaria and knowing more about the fruit rot in walnuts can be benefited from morphological and molecular identification using several gene loci, genetic variability in the ITS rRNA gene, and total phenol analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulam Jeelani Dar
- Centre of Research for Development (CORD), University of Kashmir, 190006, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Ruqeya Nazir
- Centre of Research for Development (CORD), University of Kashmir, 190006, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
| | - Shakil A Wani
- Division of Veterinary Microbiology & Immunology, SK University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Saleem Farooq
- Centre of Research for Development (CORD), University of Kashmir, 190006, Jammu and Kashmir, India; Department of Environmental Science, University of Kashmir, 190006, Jammu and Kashmir, India
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26
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Wu S, Guo W, Li B, Zhou H, Meng H, Sun J, Li R, Guo D, Zhang X, Li R, Qu W. Progress of polymer-based strategies in fungal disease management: Designed for different roles. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1142029. [PMID: 37033476 PMCID: PMC10073610 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1142029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Fungal diseases have posed a great challenge to global health, but have fewer solutions compared to bacterial and viral infections. Development and application of new treatment modalities for fungi are limited by their inherent essential properties as eukaryotes. The microorganism identification and drug sensitivity analyze are limited by their proliferation rates. Moreover, there are currently no vaccines for prevention. Polymer science and related interdisciplinary technologies have revolutionized the field of fungal disease management. To date, numerous advanced polymer-based systems have been developed for management of fungal diseases, including prevention, diagnosis, treatment and monitoring. In this review, we provide an overview of current needs and advances in polymer-based strategies against fungal diseases. We high light various treatment modalities. Delivery systems of antifungal drugs, systems based on polymers' innate antifungal activities, and photodynamic therapies each follow their own mechanisms and unique design clues. We also discuss various prevention strategies including immunization and antifungal medical devices, and further describe point-of-care testing platforms as futuristic diagnostic and monitoring tools. The broad application of polymer-based strategies for both public and personal health management is prospected and integrated systems have become a promising direction. However, there is a gap between experimental studies and clinical translation. In future, well-designed in vivo trials should be conducted to reveal the underlying mechanisms and explore the efficacy as well as biosafety of polymer-based products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Wu
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wenlai Guo
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Huidong Zhou
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hongqi Meng
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Junyi Sun
- Changchun American International School, Changchun, China
| | - Ruiyan Li
- Orthpoeadic Medical Center, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Orhtopeadics, Changchun, China
| | - Deming Guo
- Orthpoeadic Medical Center, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Orhtopeadics, Changchun, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Department of Burn Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xi Zhang, ; Rui Li, ; Wenrui Qu,
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xi Zhang, ; Rui Li, ; Wenrui Qu,
| | - Wenrui Qu
- Department of Hand Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xi Zhang, ; Rui Li, ; Wenrui Qu,
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27
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Chou JY, Hsu PC, Leu JY. Enforcement of Postzygotic Species Boundaries in the Fungal Kingdom. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2022; 86:e0009822. [PMID: 36098649 PMCID: PMC9769731 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00098-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the molecular basis of speciation is a primary goal in evolutionary biology. The formation of the postzygotic reproductive isolation that causes hybrid dysfunction, thereby reducing gene flow between diverging populations, is crucial for speciation. Using various advanced approaches, including chromosome replacement, hybrid introgression and transcriptomics, population genomics, and experimental evolution, scientists have revealed multiple mechanisms involved in postzygotic barriers in the fungal kingdom. These results illuminate both unique and general features of fungal speciation. Our review summarizes experiments on fungi exploring how Dobzhansky-Muller incompatibility, killer meiotic drive, chromosome rearrangements, and antirecombination contribute to postzygotic reproductive isolation. We also discuss possible evolutionary forces underlying different reproductive isolation mechanisms and the potential roles of the evolutionary arms race under the Red Queen hypothesis and epigenetic divergence in speciation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jui-Yu Chou
- Department of Biology, National Changhua University of Education, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Po-Chen Hsu
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jun-Yi Leu
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
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28
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Liu A, Li Z, Su G, Li Y, Zhang Y, Liang J, Cheng X, Wang X, Li Y, Ye F. Mycotic infection as a risk factor for COVID-19: A meta-analysis. Front Public Health 2022; 10:943234. [PMID: 36159283 PMCID: PMC9489839 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.943234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
More than 405 million people have contracted coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) worldwide, and mycotic infection may be related to COVID-19 development. There are a large number of reports showing that COVID-19 patients with mycotic infection have an increased risk of mortality. However, whether mycotic infection can be considered a risk factor for COVID-19 remains unknown. We searched the PubMed and Web of Science databases for studies published from inception to December 27, 2021. Pooled effect sizes were calculated according to a random-effects model or fixed-effect model, depending on heterogeneity. We also performed subgroup analyses to identify differences in mortality rates between continents and fungal species. A total of 20 articles were included in this study. Compared with the controls, patients with mycotic infection had an odds ratio (OR) of 2.69 [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.22-3.26] for mortality and an OR of 2.28 (95% CI: 1.65-3.16) for renal replacement therapy (RRT). We also conducted two subgroup analyses based on continent and fungal species, and we found that Europe and Asia had the highest ORs, while Candida was the most dangerous strain of fungi. We performed Egger's test and Begg's test to evaluate the publication bias of the included articles, and the p-value was 0.423, which indicated no significant bias. Mycotic infection can be regarded as a risk factor for COVID-19, and decision makers should be made aware of this risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anlin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,Nanshan School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhengtu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guansheng Su
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ya Li
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,Nanshan School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuzhuo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,Nanshan School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinkai Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,Nanshan School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxue Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,Nanshan School of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xidong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongming Li
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Feng Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China,*Correspondence: Feng Ye ;
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29
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Natural products from Photorhabdus and Xenorhabdus: mechanisms and impacts. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 106:4387-4399. [PMID: 35723692 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-022-12023-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Insects and fungal pathogens pose constant problems to public health and agriculture, especially in resource-limited parts of the world; and the use of chemical pesticides continues to be the main methods for the control of these organisms. Photorhabdus spp. and Xenorhabdus spp., (Fam; Morganellaceae), enteric symbionts of Steinernema, and Heterorhabditis nematodes are naturally found in soil on all continents, except Antarctic, and on many islands throughout the world. These bacteria produce diverse secondary metabolites that have important biological and ecological functions. Secondary metabolites include non-ribosomal peptides, polyketides, and/or hybrid natural products that are synthesized using polyketide synthetase (PRS), non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS), or similar enzymes and are sources of new pesticide/drug compounds and/or can serve as lead molecules for the design and synthesize of new alternatives that could replace current ones. This review addresses the effects of these bacterial symbionts on insect pests, fungal phytopathogens, and animal pathogens and discusses the substances, mechanisms, and impacts on agriculture and public health. KEY POINTS: • Insects and fungi are a constant menace to agricultural and public health. • Chemical-based control results in resistance development. • Photorhabdus and Xenorhabdus are compelling sources of biopesticides.
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30
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Rokas A. Evolution of the human pathogenic lifestyle in fungi. Nat Microbiol 2022; 7:607-619. [PMID: 35508719 PMCID: PMC9097544 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-022-01112-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Fungal pathogens cause more than a billion human infections every year, resulting in more than 1.6 million deaths annually. Understanding the natural history and evolutionary ecology of fungi is helping us understand how disease-relevant traits have repeatedly evolved. Different types and mechanisms of genetic variation have contributed to the evolution of fungal pathogenicity and specific genetic differences distinguish pathogens from non-pathogens. Insights into the traits, genetic elements, and genetic and ecological mechanisms that contribute to the evolution of fungal pathogenicity are crucial for developing strategies to both predict emergence of fungal pathogens and develop drugs to combat them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonis Rokas
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Vanderbilt Evolutionary Studies Initiative, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
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31
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Jiang W, Zhou M, Cong Z, Xie J, Zhang W, Chen S, Zou J, Ji Z, Shao N, Chen X, Li M, Liu R. Short Guanidinium-Functionalized Poly(2-oxazoline)s Displaying Potent Therapeutic Efficacy on Drug-Resistant Fungal Infections. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022; 61:e202200778. [PMID: 35182092 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202200778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
New antifungals are urgently needed to combat invasive fungal infections, due to limited types of available antifungal drugs and frequently encountered side effects, as well as the quick emergence of drug-resistance. We previously developed amine-pendent poly(2-oxazoline)s (POXs) as synthetic mimics of host defense peptides (HDPs) to have antibacterial properties, but with poor antifungal activity. Hereby, we report the finding of short guanidinium-pendent POXs, inspired by cell-penetrating peptides, as synthetic mimics of HDPs to display potent antifungal activity, superior mammalian cells versus fungi selectivity, and strong therapeutic efficacy in treating local and systemic fungal infections. Moreover, the unique antifungal mechanism of fungal cell membrane penetration and organelle disruption explains the insusceptibility of POXs to antifungal resistance. The easy synthesis and structural diversity of POXs imply their potential as a class of promising antifungal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weinan Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Min Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Zihao Cong
- Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Shanghai Frontier Science Research Base of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China.,Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Jiayang Xie
- Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Shanghai Frontier Science Research Base of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China.,Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Wenjing Zhang
- Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Shanghai Frontier Science Research Base of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China.,Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Sheng Chen
- Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Shanghai Frontier Science Research Base of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China.,Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Jingcheng Zou
- Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Shanghai Frontier Science Research Base of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China.,Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Zhemin Ji
- Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Shanghai Frontier Science Research Base of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China.,Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Ning Shao
- Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Shanghai Frontier Science Research Base of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China.,Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Maoquan Li
- Department of Interventional and Vascular Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Runhui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China.,Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Shanghai Frontier Science Research Base of Optogenetic Techniques for Cell Metabolism, Research Center for Biomedical Materials of Ministry of Education, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China.,Key Laboratory for Ultrafine Materials of Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
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Synthesis and Evaluation of the Antifungal and Toxicological Activity of Nitrofuran Derivatives. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14030593. [PMID: 35335969 PMCID: PMC8950151 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14030593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal diseases affect more than 1 billion people worldwide. The constant global changes, the advent of new pandemics, and chronic diseases favor the diffusion of fungal pathogens such as Candida, Cryptococcus, Aspergillus, Trichophyton, Histoplasma capsulatum, and Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. In this work, a series of nitrofuran derivatives were synthesized and tested against different fungal species; most of them showed inhibitory activity, fungicide, and fungistatic profile. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC90) values for the most potent compounds range from 0.48 µg/mL against H. capsulatum (compound 11) and P. brasiliensis (compounds 3 and 9) to 0.98 µg/mL against Trichophyton rubrum and T. mentagrophytes (compounds 8, 9, 12, 13 and 8, 12, 13, respectively), and 3.9 µg/mL against Candida and Cryptococcus neoformans strains (compounds 1 and 5, respectively). In addition, all compounds showed low toxicity when tested in vitro on lung cell lines (A549 and MRC-5) and in vivo in Caenorhabditis elegans larvae. Many of them showed high selectivity index values. Thus, these studied nitrofuran derivatives proved to be potent against different fungal species, characterized by low toxicity and high selectivity; for these reasons, they may become promising compounds for the treatment of mycoses.
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Jiang W, Zhou M, Cong Z, Xie J, Zhang W, Chen S, Zou J, Ji Z, Shao N, Chen X, Li M, Liu R. Short Guanidinium‐Functionalized Poly(2‐oxazoline)s Displaying Potent Therapeutic Efficacy on Drug‐Resistant Fungal Infections. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202200778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Weinan Jiang
- ECUST: East China University of Science and Technology School of Materials Science and Engineering CHINA
| | - Min Zhou
- ECUST: East China University of Science and Technology School of Pharmacy CHINA
| | - Zihao Cong
- ECUST: East China University of Science and Technology School of Materials Science and Engineering CHINA
| | - Jiayang Xie
- ECUST: East China University of Science and Technology School of Materials Science and Engineering CHINA
| | - Wenjing Zhang
- ECUST: East China University of Science and Technology School of Materials Science and Engineering CHINA
| | - Sheng Chen
- ECUST: East China University of Science and Technology School of Materials Science and Engineering CHINA
| | - Jingcheng Zou
- ECUST: East China University of Science and Technology School of Materials Science and Engineering CHINA
| | - Zhemin Ji
- ECUST: East China University of Science and Technology School of Materials Science and Engineering CHINA
| | - Ning Shao
- ECUST: East China University of Science and Technology School of Materials Science and Engineering CHINA
| | - Xin Chen
- ECUST: East China University of Science and Technology School of Materials Science and Engineering CHINA
| | - Maoquan Li
- Tongji University Tenth People's Hospital: Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital School of medicine CHINA
| | - Runhui Liu
- East China University of Science and Technology Materials Science and Engineering 130 Meilong Road 200237 Shanghai CHINA
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Yadav V, Sun S, Heitman J. Uniparental nuclear inheritance following bisexual mating in fungi. eLife 2021; 10:66234. [PMID: 34338631 PMCID: PMC8412948 DOI: 10.7554/elife.66234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Some remarkable animal species require an opposite-sex partner for their sexual development but discard the partner’s genome before gamete formation, generating hemi-clonal progeny in a process called hybridogenesis. Here, we discovered a similar phenomenon, termed pseudosexual reproduction, in a basidiomycete human fungal pathogen, Cryptococcus neoformans, where exclusive uniparental inheritance of nuclear genetic material was observed during bisexual reproduction. Analysis of strains expressing fluorescent reporter proteins revealed instances where only one of the parental nuclei was present in the terminal sporulating basidium. Whole-genome sequencing revealed that the nuclear genome of the progeny was identical with one or the other parental genome. Pseudosexual reproduction was also detected in natural isolate crosses where it resulted in mainly MATα progeny, a bias observed in Cryptococcus ecological distribution as well. The mitochondria in these progeny were inherited from the MATa parent, resulting in nuclear-mitochondrial genome exchange. The meiotic recombinase Dmc1 was found to be critical for pseudosexual reproduction. These findings reveal a novel, and potentially ecologically significant, mode of eukaryotic microbial reproduction that shares features with hybridogenesis in animals. Sexual reproduction enables organisms to recombine their genes to generate progeny that have higher levels of evolutionary fitness. This process requires reproductive cells – like the sperm and egg – to fuse together and mix their two genomes, resulting in offspring that are genetically distinct from their parents. In a disease-causing fungus called Cryptococcus neoformans, sexual reproduction occurs when two compatible mating types (MATa and MATα) merge together to form long branched filaments called hyphae. Cells in the hyphae contain two nuclei – one from each parent – which fuse in specialized cells at the end of the branches called basidia. The fused nucleus is then divided into four daughter nuclei, which generate spores that can develop into new organisms. In nature, the mating types of C. neoformans exhibit a peculiar distribution where MATα represents 95% or more of the population. However, it is not clear how this fungus successfully reproduces with such an unusually skewed distribution of mating types. To investigate this further, Yadav et al. tracked the reproductive cycle of C. neoformans applying genetic techniques, fluorescence microscopy, and whole-genome sequencing. This revealed that during hyphal branching some cells lose the nucleus of one of the two mating types. As a result, the nuclei of the generated spores only contain genetic information from one parent. Yadav et al. named this process pseudosexual reproduction as it defies the central benefit of sex, which is to produce offspring with a new combination of genetic information. Further experiments showed that this unconventional mode of reproduction can be conducted by fungi isolated from both environmental samples and clinical patient samples. This suggests that pseudosexual reproduction is a widespread and conserved process that may provide significant evolutionary benefits. C. neoformans represents a flexible and adaptable model organism to explore the impact and evolutionary advantages of sex. Further studies of the unique reproductive strategies employed by this fungus may improve the understanding of similar processes in other eukaryotes, including animals and plants. This research may also have important implications for understanding and controlling the growth of other disease-causing microbes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikas Yadav
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, United States
| | - Sheng Sun
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, United States
| | - Joseph Heitman
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, United States
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